Blaze sign ex-Cougar Keele

Eddie Keele's college football playing days were ended prematurely when the BYU offensive lineman suffered a season-ending knee injury his senior year against Boston College.

But his football playing days in Utah aren't over just yet. After recovering from knee surgery, Keele, a 6-4, 305-pounder, has signed a two-year contract with the Arena Football League's Utah Blaze.

The Blaze also added a veteran receiver who could help them offset the loss of Siaha Burley in free agency to the Arizona Rattlers. J.J. McKelvey (6-4, 225 pounds) was acquired from the Philadelphia Soul for defensive lineman Steve Konopka.

"Eddie and J.J. are great additions to our offense," said Blaze head coach and general manager Danny White. "It is always exciting when we can find a local guy like Eddie who possesses such great talent."

Keele, who grew up in Washington state, started all 12 games as a junior at BYU in 2005 and didn't allow a single sack. The Cougars averaged 33 points per game that season. He was injured in BYU's third game in '06, however, ending his college career. Keele, as an undrafted free agent, spent time with the Oakland Raiders this season before being released.

McKelvey played for the Soul from 2006-07 where he recorded 86 receptions for 1,133 yards and 31 touchdowns. Defensively, he tallied 40.5 total tackles, one interception, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery and three pass breakups. Prior to playing for the Soul, McKelvey played his 2004-05 seasons with the Manchester Wolves (af2). McKelvey, who played college ball at Clemson, also spent time with the NFL is Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2003.

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